Obituary of Richard Leslie Marley

Richard L. Marley, 102, passed away at home on June 15, 2026, surrounded by his family.

He was born on May 2, 1924, in Utica, the son of Raymond and Elizabeth (Jones) Marley. After completing his high school education at UFA, he served his country in the United States Army during World War II. He was stationed at West Point, serving as an official driver to Generals and other dignitaries.

He retired from Griffiss Air Force Base in 1970 and then worked at MVCC until his second retirement in 1985. Following his and Mary Jane’s retirement they spent the next 25 years wintering in Florida. He took up golfing at the age of 55, enjoying many rounds up to the age of 101 at Oneida Community, where he was a member for 23 years.  He also enjoyed playing cards, going to casinos, and spending time with friends and family.

When asked what was the best thing about living to 100, he replied, “Everything is the best.”

He will be greatly missed by his parter of 47 years, Mary Jane Presite; his daughter and son-in-law, Margaret Marley Stowell (Don); and his many close friends and extended family

He is survived by his son-in-law James D. Severin; daughter-in-law, Ann Marley; five grandchildren, Laura Patterson (Sean), Sarah Marley, Katie Marley Jennifer Severin, Melissa Severin; his two great-grandsons, Ryan and Liam Patterson; and his nieces and nephews, Jim, Bob and Kevin Kipers, Janet Washburn, Kevin Marley, Sherry Wheat, Keith Marley.

He was held in high esteem by Mary Jane’s family and had a very special bonds with Diane Estrella (Charlie) and Amy Sullivan (Joe).

He was predeceased by his parents; his son Michael R. Marley; his daughter Sue Marley Severin; and his brothers and sister, Bill Marley, Betty Marley Meisenheimer and Bob Marley.

Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10am on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Church of the Annunciation in Clark Mills. He will be buried at Prospect Cemetery.  There will be no public calling hours. Arrangements by Owens-Pavlot & Rogers Funeral Service, Clinton, NY.